The Teacher of the Deaf (ToD)
A Qualified Teacher of the Deaf (ToD) is a specialist who:
- Assesses your child's hearing and listening in school
- Advises teachers on classroom strategies
- Provides direct teaching support
- Monitors hearing aids and radio aids
- Supports language and communication development
Every deaf child should have access to a ToD. Contact your local authority Sensory Support Service or Hearing Impairment Team.
Classroom acoustics
Good acoustics are essential. Schools should:
- Use carpet and soft furnishings to reduce echo
- Close windows and doors to cut noise
- Seat your child with their back to the wall, facing the teacher
- Avoid open-plan classrooms where possible
- Use a radio aid (microphone worn by the teacher, receiver on the hearing aid)
Hearing technology in school
| Device | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Radio aid / FM system | Teacher's voice goes directly to hearing aids |
| Soundfield system | Speaker distributes the teacher's voice around the room |
| Personal amplifier | Portable device for small group work |
Communication support
Depending on your child's needs, they may use:
- Speech and lip-reading
- Sign Supported English (SSE)
- British Sign Language (BSL)
- Total Communication – a mix of approaches
The school must provide access to a communication support worker if needed.
and deafness
Many deaf children have an . Important provisions:
- Section B – hearing and communication needs
- Section F – ToD hours, radio aid, speech therapy
- Section F – BSL tuition or communication support
- Section F – acoustic modifications
Exam access arrangements
Deaf pupils may be entitled to:
- Extra time
- A separate room (for radio aid use)
- A BSL interpreter for instructions
- Modified language papers
Ask the to apply via the JCQ or exam board.